Everyone loves the mafia –at least in films, on television, and in books. Why? And what is ‘the’ mafia? In this seminar we will explore fictional and non-fictional explanations of the mafia as an originally unique, Italian phenomenon, and as a closed social, economic, and psychological system based on brutality and secrecy. Our materials will include a few essential readings with discussion of classic films and TV representations.

Prerequisite: freshman standing.